Live, Love, Spy

Lexi Blake

Mar 2024 · Masters and Mercenaries: New Recruits Book 2 · DLZ Entertainment LLC

About this ebook

Life can often be awkward when you’re a child genius. For Louisa Ward, that came in the form of meeting her one true love at the age of 12. TJ Taggart was perfect. But being a year younger and a full grade ahead of him in school always made things weird. Working in the CIA has turned her into a strong and capable woman. Until TJ walks into a room. Fifteen years later, she still gets butterflies every time she sees the gorgeous soldier, but she’s tired of waiting and ready to find love, even if it can’t be with him.

TJ Taggart always knew he wanted to be a soldier. But joining the Army would require a sacrifice. Since meeting Louisa, TJ knew she was the one for him, but they had different paths in life. Lou was meant to change the world at some prestigious research job or maybe teach at an Ivy League school. There would be a chance to sweep her off her feet when his time in this dangerous life was done, and their happily ever after could begin.

Before he can make it home on his latest leave, TJ is kidnapped by an unknown adversary. As he waits to die, all he can think of is the time he wasted and how badly he wants to be with Lou. He’s more than a little surprised when his sweet, quiet girl shows up leading a CIA special ops squad to bust him out. Back in Dallas, it’s time to claim the woman of his dreams. He has a plan to win her over, until the adversary who almost killed him returns to finish the job.

Ratings and reviews

As a long-time fan and avid reader of all things Lexi Blake, it is hard for me to say that I have not felt the same connection to the New Recruits. There were age inconsistencies, a lot of inner dialogue, and it just went on too long. Not my favourite story, but I will always read Ms Blake’s books, as her writing is easy to follow and addictive. So, while TJ and Lou weren't and will never be my favourite couple, the added bonus of the OG crew kept me reading till the end.

Another great story by Lexi Blake. The New Recruits story arc is fantastic. This is Book 2 of the series that focuses on the next generation, the kids of Mckay/Taggert. The story follows T.J. and Lou as they navigate their relationship and try to find an arms dealer too. We are on a roller coaster of emotions throughout the investigation. I enjoyed Lou’s relationship with Kala who while tough, displays her vulnerability and protectiveness towards those she loves. Both Lou and T.J. discover that

Their story was complicated but what a wonderful journey it was as they realised how they felt about one another. The camaraderie, banter and interference from both their families had me smiling, laughing and shaking my head at times. This was a well written, action-packed romantic suspense story with a good balance of romance and suspense. I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading such is Ms. Blake’s writing, she draws you in and will keep you invested from the first to the last chapter.

About the author

Lexi Blake is the author of contemporary and urban fantasy romance. She started publishing in 2011 and has gone on to sell over two million copies of her books. Her books have appeared twenty-six times on the USA Today, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal bestseller lists. She lives in North Texas with her husband, kids, and two rescue dogs.